Advocacy

I am a vocal advocate for disability rights. In my graduate studies at the UW I studied disability law, social justice, and had a practicum placement in a community health organization serving people with disabilities. As a Governor appointed member of the WA State DD Council I worked on legislation that took me to the Capitols of both Washingtons.

Currently working on legislation to revise federal ERISA law to prohibit discrimination by long term disability plans. Mental Health Parity does not exist in the current law.

I have a brother who is significantly impacted by disability and am involved with his care. I also identify as a person with a disability and an ally to historically disenfranchised groups.

I am active on social media and produce a podcast. My writing focuses on sharing stories of lived experiences of disability. I have published one memoir on this theme, with another slated for publication next year. I am also in the early stages of writing a workbook entitled “Trying: Living Well with Disability.”